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"Amazing Grace"
Grace was recorded in a large Baptist
church with an ultraenthusiastic, loving audience in the pews
and a full, funky, band as well as the Southern California Community
Choir under the direction of Franklin's mentor Rev. James Cleveland.
Franklin's voice is melismatic and intensely emotional, yet pure
and controlled--as if she were directly channeling the Holy Ghost.
Aretha's father, the brilliant preacher Rev. C.L. Franklin, makes
a brief, proud appearance, remarking how "she has never
left the church!" Highlights include the beautiful "Wholy
Holy," an 11-minute, heart-stopping "Amazing Grace,"
and Inez Andrews's stirring song "Mary, Don't You Weep."
Way more than a return-to-the-roots record, the set is an inspired
gospel-soul workout that arguably showcases Franklin's strongest
singing ever. --Mike McGonigal |
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